As the much-anticipated Supreme Court judgment looms, anxiety and fear grip the nation in anticipation of the fate of President-elect Bola Tinubu. The court is set to rule on allegations of double nomination against Tinubu’s running mate, Kashim Shettima, which could potentially impact Tinubu’s victory.
The case, brought forward by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), seeks the disqualification of Tinubu and Vice-President-elect Shettima, citing a violation of electoral laws through double nomination. The PDP argues that the ruling party’s decision to nominate Shettima both as the senatorial candidate for Borno Central and as the vice-presidential candidate is in breach of the law.
The PDP’s appeal is centered on the claim that the appellate court made an erroneous judgment by dismissing their appeal and upholding the trial court’s ruling that the suit was both incompetent and lacking in merit.
The pending verdict has triggered a sense of panic among Nigerians, particularly because Tinubu’s inauguration as the next Nigerian president is scheduled for May 29, making the Supreme Court’s decision crucial to the smooth continuation of the transition of power.
In light of these anxieties, Chuks Ibegbu, a public affairs analyst, urges citizens to remain calm and reassures them of the Supreme Court’s authority. He emphasizes that the decision of the court is supreme and should not be a cause for alarm. Ibegbu also appeals to Nigerians not to allow themselves to be manipulated into causing chaos following the court’s ruling.
Ibegbu, a chieftain of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, expressed his thoughts to ,. stating, “Well, the Supreme Court is the Highest in the land. There should be no cause for alarm. Whatever decision they take is Supreme. We hope their decision will be the best in the interest of justice and Nigeria.”
He goes on to emphasize the importance of maintaining law and order, cautioning against politicians who may attempt to exploit the situation for personal gain. Ibegbu reminds Nigerians of their commonalities in various aspects of life, such as marriage, workplace relationships, and religious affiliations, highlighting the need for unity and peace.